Châteaude Montfort Château de Montfort

A Scenic Masterpiece

A private residence

The Château de Montfort is a striking architectural gem located between the picturesque towns of Vitrac and Carsac in the heart of the Dordogne Valley. Perched high on a cliff, the château offers breathtaking views over the Cingle de Montfort, a dramatic loop in the Dordogne River that almost forms a complete circle.

Although it is a private residence and not open to the public, the castle can be admired from several vantage points, including scenic driving routes and a stunning hiking trail that allows visitors to experience its grandeur from a distance.

A story full of twists and turns

The history of Château de Montfort dates back to the 9th century, with its presence first documented in a letter from Pope Nicholas I to the abbot of Sarlat. Over the centuries, the château has experienced numerous periods of construction, destruction, and rebuilding.

One of the most dramatic events in its history occurred in the early 13th century, when it was destroyed by Simon de Montfort in 1214 during the crusade against the Cathars. It was rebuilt shortly thereafter, only to be besieged and demolished again several times over the next few centuries.

During the late Middle Ages, the château was owned by the de Brézé family, who played a significant role in its restoration. However, tragedy struck in 1481 when Jacques de Brézé, in a fit of jealousy, killed his wife, Charlotte de Valois, with a sword. Charlotte was no ordinary noblewoman—she was the king’s half-sister, being the illegitimate daughter of King Charles VII of France. Jacques was imprisoned but the castle was spared and continued to stand, albeit shrouded in the shadow of its violent history.

In the early 20th century, the château faced another dark chapter. Jean Mercier, who purchased Montfort in 1921, moved in with his family and began restoring the château, incorporating architectural elements salvaged from the church of Saint-Vaast in Béthune. However, during World War II, the château was pillaged by Spanish maquisards, anti-fascist guerrilla fighters operating in the region. In a tragic turn of events, Jean Mercier was murdered during this raid. His wife had to sell the property in 1962. Despite these tragedies, the château remains privately owned and has been preserved as a historical monument to its storied past.

The Cingle de Montfort: A Natural Wonder

The château overlooks the Cingle de Montfort, a natural bend in the Dordogne River. This unique geographical feature creates a near-complete loop surrounded by steep cliffs, giving the impression of an isolated island nestled in the midst of the river.

The Montfort cliff itself is a popular destination for climbers, offering a challenging ascent and stunning panoramic views from the top. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, the viewpoint at the top of the cliff, accessible by car, provides a sweeping vista of the château and the surrounding countryside.

The hiking track around Montfort

One of the best ways to explore the area around the château is to take the Boucle de Montfort, an 8-kilometer hiking trail that winds through the surrounding scenic landscape. The trail begins in the village of Vitrac, following the banks of the Dordogne before ascending through the forest to the heights of Montfort. Along the way, hikers are treated to beautiful views of the river cliffs. The path then descends back to the river, passing through picturesque woods and small heritage sites typical of the Périgord Noir region.

Modern Era and Private Ownership

Today, the Château de Montfort remains a private residence and is not accessible to the public. Its current owners have preserved its historical integrity while maintaining the privacy and exclusivity of the property. Although visitors cannot explore the interior of the château, they can still enjoy its majestic presence from various vantage points around the property.

The route leading to the château, the D703, winds through a beautiful landscape of holm oaks and cliffs, with the castle dramatically emerging above the small village of Montfort. This scenic drive offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate the château’s strategic position and architectural beauty, which have made it a landmark in the region.

Exploring the Surroundings: Vitrac and the Dordogne River

The area around Montfort is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town of Vitrac, just 7 kilometers south of Sarlat-la-Canéda, is a charming destination in itself, known for its scenic port along the Dordogne River. Vitrac is also a popular starting point for canoe trips, offering a unique way to experience the natural splendor of the Dordogne Valley.

If you come in the summer months, head to the beach of Caudon; a perfect place to lay down you towel on the sand, put your feet in the Dordogne River and enjoy the spectacular scenery.